Visiting the Exorcist Steps

Nestled in the historic neighborhood of Georgetown, Washington, D.C., the Exorcist Steps stand as an iconic piece of both cinematic and local history. Known for their chilling appearance in the 1973 horror classic The Exorcist, these steep concrete steps have since become a pilgrimage site for fans of the film and movie enthusiasts alike. If you're a horror aficionado, a film buff, or simply interested in quirky local landmarks, visiting the Exorcist Steps should definitely be on your D.C. itinerary.

The History Behind the Steps

The Exorcist Steps are not just famous for their cinematic moment—they are a part of the city's rich history. Built in 1895 by George Killeen, a well-known local Democrat, the steps originally served a practical purpose, providing a public right of way and acting as a lightwell during the construction of the adjacent Capital Traction Company Barn for cable cars.

There’s even a family legend attached to these steps, which adds another layer of intrigue to their story. According to Killeen’s descendants, the construction of the wall next to the steps was done on a handshake deal, and George Killeen was never paid for his work. Long before their association with The Exorcist, these steps were casually referred to as the "Hitchcock Steps" by locals, paying homage to another master of suspense—Alfred Hitchcock.

                                       The photo above from 1865 shows 36th St. (which at the time was called Gay St.) as it tumbles down to M St. (which was itself known as Falls St. at this time).

The Exorcist Connection

The steps gained international fame in The Exorcist, during one of the most haunting scenes in cinematic history. Father Damien Karras, the character portrayed by Jason Miller, plunges down these very steps after a climactic exorcism scene. To film this dramatic fall, the production crew padded the stairs with half-inch-thick rubber, ensuring the actor's stunt was safely executed.

Interestingly, if you visit the location today, you might notice that the house from which Father Karras falls isn’t as close to the steps as it appears in the film. To achieve that perfect shot, the filmmakers built an extension with a false front to make the house seem closer to the top of the staircase. This kind of movie magic only adds to the allure and mystique of the site.

Becoming a D.C. Landmark

In 2015, the steps were officially recognized as a D.C. landmark. A Halloween weekend ceremony, complete with The Exorcist director William Friedkin and screenwriter William Peter Blatty, commemorated the steps' cultural and cinematic significance. Mayor Muriel Bowser unveiled a plaque at the base of the steps, marking them as an official tourist attraction and solidifying their place in both Washington, D.C. and film history.

Visiting the Exorcist Steps Today

When you visit the steps today, you’ll find that they are tucked away in a charming corner of Georgetown, at the intersection of Prospect St and 36th St NW. The stairs descend steeply from 36th Street to a small parking lot near Canal Rd NW, M Street NW, and the Whitehurst Freeway NW. It’s a picturesque spot that stands in sharp contrast to the eerie connotations from the film. In fact, Georgetown itself, with its cobblestone streets, beautiful old houses, and thriving boutique scene, makes for a perfect day out after you’ve experienced the iconic stairs.

The steps themselves are steep, narrow, and lined by a towering stone wall. As you walk down, it’s hard not to think of the cinematic moment that made them so famous. Standing at the bottom, you can look up and imagine the intense, haunting scenes of the film. The steep descent, coupled with the surrounding urban setting, still evokes an eerie sense of anticipation and thrill for those familiar with the movie.

A Hauntingly Memorable Experience

Visiting the Exorcist Steps is more than just a stroll down a famous staircase—it's an opportunity to step into film history. Whether you're a die-hard fan of The Exorcist or simply curious about D.C.’s hidden gems, these steps offer a unique experience that combines the world of horror cinema with the charm of historic Georgetown.

Don’t forget to take a picture at the bottom, where the commemorative plaque now stands, to mark your visit to one of the most iconic staircases in film history. While the real-life experience may not be as terrifying as in the movie, the connection to The Exorcist still sends a shiver down your spine, making it an unforgettable stop in Washington, D.C.

So, if you ever find yourself in Georgetown, make sure to explore the Exorcist Steps—and maybe bring a friend, just in case you feel a sudden chill in the air.